France qualify for FIFA World Cup 2026 semis with 2-0 win over Morocco

France booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals with a composed 2-0 victory over Morocco in the quarterfinals. Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele scored within six minutes of each other after the first half to settle a contest that France had largely controlled despite being frustrated for an hour by Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou and a resilient defence.

Notably, France dictated possession from the opening whistle and created the clearer opportunities throughout the first half. Mbappe tested Bounou early, while Dayot Upamecano and Desire Doue also forced saves as Didier



Deschamps’ side pinned Morocco deep inside their own half.

The breakthrough almost arrived before the half-hour mark when Mbappe won a penalty after being brought down by Noussair Mazraoui. However, Bounou guessed correctly to save the Real Madrid star’s tame spot kick, preserving the deadlock and giving Morocco renewed belief.

Now, Morocco struggled to threaten at the other end and that was a problem. Walid Regragui’s side rarely managed to sustain attacks and failed to register meaningful efforts on goal as France’s defence comfortably dealt with the occasional counterattacks.